Q. Can you explain the precise definition of
the word 'munafiq'
and to what extent its normal Arabic meaning differs from the Qur'anic connotations of the term. Also, do you have any
information on the etymology of the word (e.g., its root)? And
what about riya?
Have people who indulge in riya ever been seen or classified as munafiqoon? Is there an overlap
in meaning?

A. The term munafiq
is a really difficult one to apply in Islam, and we have to be very careful as
to how we use it -- the guideline being that only God can see into the heart of
anyone. This, of course, does not deny that certain cases might be blatant, but
even so, unless it is a matter of community security or wherein someone's
safety and well-being might be compromised by lack of disclosure, we feel that
there is no such thing as an absolutely verifiable verdict on such cases.

Riya is
basically doing things for show. While a munafiq will certainly do this,
we do not feel that everyone who commits riya is a munafiq. The human psyche is as such
that sometimes people do things to be seen, probably because they simply want
to be appreciated or whatever -- and not in every instance is this a case of hypocrisy. One might truly believe in God,
truly believe in sadaqah,
and give it openly so that s/he might be appreciated. That person's case is
with God, but in no way can we claim it is part of nifaq.

The word comes from the third form of nafaqa, and means to mislead. Some say that it takes the
name from the gerboa
-- which has several entrances to its burrow. If you chase it in through one,
it can leave through any of the other exits. The name applies because the munafiq comes
into Islam, and misleads us into thinking s/he is one thing or doing one thing
when s/he is not. The meaning is explained several times in the Qur'an, such as in Sura 3
where the munafiqoon
are described as saying with their lips what is not in their hearts.